Abdul Rahim Rather reviews tourism development works at Yousmarg

• Stresses interdepartmental coordination, quality infrastructure, promotion of winter tourism

BUDGAM: Speaker, Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Abdul Rahim Rather, today convened a high-level meeting to review the progress of ongoing development works, their execution and the new initiatives proposed under the Special Area Sustainable Community-Centred Initiative (SASCI) at Yousmarg, Haijan, Nilnag, Nagbal and adjoining areas.

The meeting also focused on resolving issues pertaining to the Forest Department that have been affecting the timely execution of various developmental projects in these tourist destinations.

During the meeting, Chief Executive Officer, Yousmarg Development Authority (YDA), Riyaz Ahmad, gave a detailed presentation on the developmental profile of the area, highlighting prominent trekking destinations, ongoing and proposed projects, beautification initiatives, parking facilities, tourism infrastructure, winter tourism potential and various adventure tourism activities. He apprised that Rs 357 lakh have been sanctioned for 21 ongoing and new works in 2026-27, of which, more  than 85 lakhs have already been released.

The Speaker emphasized the need to develop a network of trekking trails connecting Yousmarg–Drugtolen, Yousmarg–Burgah, Yousmarg–Nilnag, Yousmarg–Haijan, Yousmarg–Fresnag and Yousmarg–Sang-e-Safaid, stating that these scenic routes would provide tourists with a unique and memorable experience while promoting eco-tourism in the region.

Emphasising the importance of coordinated efforts, the Speaker called for greater interdepartmental coordination and effective liaison among all stakeholder departments to ensure the timely completion of projects. He directed the concerned officers to resolve all bottlenecks, particularly those related to forest clearances and other procedural issues, at the earliest so that developmental works are not delayed and inconvenience to tourists and the local population is avoided.

The Speaker further instructed the executing agencies to complete all projects within the stipulated timeframe without compromising the quality of work. He reiterated that creation of durable and high-quality infrastructure should remain the foremost priority.

Highlighting the immense potential of Yousmarg as a year-round tourist destination, the Speaker stressed the need to explore and promote winter tourism activities in the area. He observed that the development of winter sports and adventure tourism would not only attract more visitors but also create sustainable livelihood opportunities for the local youth and contribute significantly to the regional economy.

Describing Yousmarg as one of the most picturesque tourist destinations of Jammu and Kashmir, the Speaker underscored the need for its planned and sustainable development while preserving its pristine natural environment.

The Speaker also directed the concerned departments to ensure completion of the Haijan–Yousmarg Bridge during the current financial year, stating that the project is crucial for improving connectivity and facilitating tourism as well as the movement of local residents.

Earlier, the Speaker visited Darewan Basti at Yousmarg, where he interacted with the local residents to take stock of their grievances and developmental aspirations. The residents urged him to develop the traditional settlement as a heritage tourism destination so that the visitors could experience and learn about the rich culture, traditions, architecture and lifestyle of the local community.

Responding positively to the demand, the Speaker said that Darewan Basti has immense cultural and heritage value and would be developed as a heritage tourism destination in a planned manner. He observed that showcasing the traditional lifestyle and cultural heritage of the area would enrich the tourism experience while creating additional livelihood opportunities for local artisans, craftsmen, guides and other stakeholders.

The Speaker informed that more that Rs 412 lakh have been sanctioned for the development and beautification of Darewan Basti under SASCI which included upgradation of Kothas in traditional pattern, road connectivity, illumination of area with solar lights, construction of pathways etc.

The Speaker also met several public delegations, who apprised him of various issues concerning road connectivity, mobile network coverage, ATM facilities and other essential public amenities. He assured the delegations that all genuine demands would be taken up with the concerned departments for their early redressal.

Among others, Chief Conservator of Forests, Kashmir, Irfan Rasool Wani; Chief Executive Officer, Yousmarg Development Authority, Riyaz Ahmad; XENs Chadoora and Charai Sharief besides senior officers of the Yousmarg Development Authority, Forest Department, Tourism Department, Public Works (R&B) Department and BSNL attended the meeting.